Tollway worker hurt in I-88 hit-run

VILLA PARK — Family members of a tollway worker who was seriously injured over the weekend in a hit-and-run collision pleaded for someone to come forward with information.

"We're angry. Whoever did this is low," said Patty Zitkus, whose brother, Wayne Pauley, remained in stable but critical condition in Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove.

Pauley, 42, of Villa Park was struck by a car about 2 a.m. Saturday on Interstate Highway 88 at Yackley Avenue in Lisle. Pauley has worked for the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority for the a year and also serves as a part-time volunteer firefighter with the York Center Fire Protection District, which he's done for the last 20 years, his sister said. He was helping to clear snow from a construction site when he was struck.

Pauley ran from the approaching vehicle but was still hit and then pushed into another vehicle. Neither vehicle stopped, and police do not have descriptions of the cars.

"Investigators are still hoping that somebody will come forward with information," said Illinois State Police Sgt. Jim Jenkner.

Zitkus said Pauley has a wife and teenage son, and said the family is distraught.

"He's a very good-hearted person. He's always looking to help other people. He risks his life every day for the safety of other people," Zitkus said. "I pray that whoever did this will come forward."